Study confirmed: electric cars are greener than petrol cars anywhere in the US
A new study from the University of Michigan has confirmed that electric cars are greener than petrol cars in every state in continental America. Regardless of region, switching to electric traction reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Here's What We Know
The scientists call the work done "the most extensive to date." Along with the publication, an online calculator has been launched that allows every American driver to estimate their own emissions depending on their car, driving style and where they live.
Study author Greg Keoleian, a professor in the School of Environment and Sustainability, explained that electrification of transport is a key strategy in the fight against climate change. Transport accounts for 28 per cent of all greenhouse gas emissions and must be reduced to curb the growing impacts: floods, fires, drought.
Greenhouse gas emissions over the life cycle of an SUV in different states. Illustration: umich
The study covers the full life cycle of vehicles, from production to operation, and also takes into account vehicle class, driving behaviour and region. All types of powertrains were considered: internal combustion engines, hybrids, plug-in hybrids and 100% electric cars. For PHEVs, experts separately assessed how much time they drive on electric power and how much time they drive on petrol.
The conclusion is unambiguous: in all US counties, electric cars produce fewer life-cycle emissions than any other car. The dirtiest were internal combustion engine pickups - so much so that even an electric truck with a 1,130kg (2,500lb) load emits 30 per cent less than an empty internal combustion engine. Compact electric sedans have the lowest emissions thanks to their small batteries and low energy consumption per mile.
Source: umich
